Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says it is "madness" that the government wants to
"clobber" an industry that helped lift Australia's monthly trade surplus to a
massive $3.5 billion.

Victoria's only remaining fire chief at the helm on Black Saturday has apologised
for his failures on the day and says he feels partly responsible for the 173 deaths
in the fires.

Economists believe official interest rates may well be on hold until next year - a
relief for borrowers, and for federal Labor as it tries to turn the election

Julia Gillard has declared the election is all about the economy on a day when Tony
Abbott's paid parental scheme launch was overshadowed by accusations of a vicious

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has defended her regional vision for combating people
smuggling amid claims corrupt officials in Indonesia are involved in arranging

Victorian Premier John Brumby's resolve to consult with bushfire communities has hit
a snag, with a Black Saturday survivor dismissing his listening tour as a media
stunt.

The chair of the superannuation system review has welcomed the federal government's
decision to adopt its recommendation for a low-fee default superannuation account.

Mark Gasnier has reclaimed the No.3 jersey in a St George Illawarra side reshuffled
by coach Wayne Bennett for Sunday's massive SCG clash with the red-hot Sydney
Roosters.

Richmond veteran Ben Cousins hopes a revealing documentary on his battle with drug
addiction will be televised soon, and with the blessing of his AFL club.

Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell has been urged to abandon her plans to wear a
sheepskin shrug and Ugg boots as part of her national costume in the 2010 Miss
Universe Pageant.